R&D
Solar panel research and technology:
engineering the future
Innovation through methodology
The core mission of Solbian’s R&D department is to advance solar panel research and technology by prioritizing efficiency and operational longevity. Through systematic solar panel R&D, the company develops solutions that balance high power density with the mechanical flexibility required for specialized applications.
Advancing solar panel research
Solbian’s research process focuses on the integration of advanced materials and optimized structural designs. By pushing the technical limits of photovoltaic integration, the company delivers high-performance solutions engineered to function reliably in the most demanding environmental conditions.
European research projects: driving the energy transition
Solbian actively participates in international consortia where solar panel R&D is key to enabling sustainable mobility and maritime decarbonization:
Whisper
An energy transition project focused on developing solutions that can significantly reduce emissions from the long-distance maritime industry.
Giants
A project dedicated to creating compact, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly electric vehicles for urban and suburban mobility.
Gamma
A groundbreaking initiative to convert a bulk carrier to operate on carbon-neutral fuels and green power, drastically reducing its environmental footprint.
The company’s R&D process: from specification to validation
Solbian’s approach to solar panel R&D follows a structured five-step workflow designed to transform complex requirements into certified industrial products.
Requirement definition
Every R&D project begins with a technical consultation. The application context is analyzed to translate client needs into precise specifications for electrical output and mechanical resilience.
Strategic collaboration
Solbian works with a network of technology partners to explore emerging materials. This synergy ensures that solar panel research remains at the forefront of material science and manufacturing innovation.
Simulation & modeling
Before physical prototyping, energy and solar models are utilized to perform mechanical, electrical, and thermal evaluations. These simulations allow for layout optimization and the anticipation of performance variables..
Rigorous testing
The experimental phase is the cornerstone of Solbian’s work. A wide range of tests is executed, including mechanical stress (flexing and impact), environmental resistance, and long-term durability assessments in internal and external laboratories.
Validation & industrialization
Every solution must meet Solbian’s rigorous quality standards. Once a product passes all validation trials, it is cleared for industrial production.
Precision engineering: virtual prototyping
Solbian utilizes a digital-first workflow, transitioning from 3D surface analysis to precise cell placement and electrical configuration to ensure a perfect fit for every surface.
System sizing & optimization
The technical team assists clients in optimizing entire energy ecosystems. For complex projects, such as maritime hybridization, specialized algorithms are employed to determine the optimal balance between solar power, battery capacity, and system weight.
Validated by science: testing facilities
To maintain a leading position in solar panel R&D, Solbian utilizes dedicated facilities to test the limits of all materials.
Environmental chambers
Extreme conditions are simulated through accelerated aging, UV resistance, humidity cycles, and salt mist corrosion testing according to international standards.
Real-world telemetry
Flexible panels are monitored in the field, such as on marine vessels. using data loggers to acquire long-term performance data under real-world irradiance and motion.
An open innovation ecosystem
Solar panel research is treated as an open, collaborative process. While products are developed internally, Solbian also partners with universities and research centers on “Technology Transfer” projects to build the next generation of integrated solar energy solutions.
“We actively pursue research and development projects, both in Europe and internally. Through research and development, we strive to offer products that meet the growing consumer demand for sustainability.”
Luca Bonci
CEO of Solbian